For many mobility and independent-living retailers in Ireland, January may seem quiet after the holiday rush. But in truth, it can be one of the year’s most promising months – especially for everyday living aids that support safety, independence, and confidence at home.
With a rapidly growing older population, seasonal health pressures, and families reevaluating their home needs after Christmas, Q1 presents a timely opportunity to showcase practical, assistive products.
Here’s why Irish retailers should see January as a strategic moment for mobility and daily-living aids sales.
1. A fast-growing older population boost long-term demand
- The number of people aged 65 or over in Ireland has risen sharply – from 569,000 in 2013 to 806,000 in 2023.
- That’s more than a 40% increase in 10 years.
- And projections show the 65+ population may double again by 2051 – putting long-term emphasis on independent living supports and daily living aids.
This demographic shift means that, now more than ever, there’s a growing market for mobility and daily living aids that support safe, independence daily life.
2. Increased risk of winter-related health issues and falls
- According to the Health Service Executive (HSE), falls among older adults lead to around 2,800 hip-fracture hospital admissions per year, with the majority of admissions involving people over 75.
- Elderly falls remain one of the biggest causes of hospitalisation and long-term injury, making safety-focused kitchen and living aids especially relevant.
After Christmas – when houses are busy, routines shift, and winter cold magnifies mobility challenges – the demand for everyday aids that reduce risk naturally rises.
3. January becomes a time for renewing routines and replacing worn items
For many older people and their families, the start of the new year isn’t about gym resolutions – it’s about reassessing daily comfort, safety, and ease of living.
Home-use items like kettles, non-slip mats, grip supports, and light-touch kitchen aids become high-priority – especially when original items are worn, or when older routines feel heavier/less safe than before.
January, therefore, is the ideal month for retailers to highlight essentials that truly make a difference in everyday life.
4. Adult children often take action after seeing their parents over Christmas
Visits home at Christmas often reveal subtle cues: a parent hesitating to lift a kettle, struggling to hold a mug, or skipping tasks they used to enjoy.
After witnessing that, adult children frequently look to improve their loved ones’ independence. Searches such as ‘’mobility aids Ireland,’’ ‘’easy-use kettle for elderly’’, or ‘’home safety products for seniors’’ go up – and many are ready to buy as the new year begins.
Retailers who position themselves as trusted supporters (not just sellers) can capture this important, emotionally motivated demand-wave.
5. Daily living aids have high value-perception and conversion potential
Essential living aids – kettles that tip rather than lift, non-slip mats, grip-support tools – tend to share characteristic that drive performance in January:
- Frequent daily use
- Clear, immediate benefit (safety, ease, independence)
- Low purchase barrier
- Easy to demonstrate in-store or online
Given the risks associated with falls and the growing older population, these items offer a strong value proposition and tend to sell steadily through Q1 and beyond.
6. Smart in-store merchandising can maximise Q1 performance
You don’t need major promotions – just clarity and empathy:
- Create a ‘’New Year, Fresh Independence’’ display table featuring daily living essentials.
- Group products by need, not just by category (e.g. ‘’Easy Kitchen Use’’, ‘’Grip & Safety,’’ or ‘’Winter warmth & stability’’)
- Use short real-life customer quotes (‘’Since using the easy-pour kettle, Mum makes tea confidently every morning’’) – social proof works well in this sector.
- Place high-value, easy-to-use items at eye level, ideally near till or entrance
- Keep displays uncluttered – emphasis ease, not gadgets.
These subtle tactics can significantly boost conversions without heavy discounting.
January Can Be the Quiet Month You’ve Been Waiting For
For mobility and independent-living retailers in Ireland, the start of the year doesn’t have to signal a slump.
With the right understanding of demographic trends, health risks associated with winter, and the emotional motivations of adult children caring for elderly parents – January becomes a strategic window to offer solutions that matter.
Essential daily living aids, kitchen supports, and ergonomic home products aren’t just practical buys – they’re tools of confidence, dignity, and renewed independence.
With a mindful product focus and thoughtful merchandising, January can quietly become one of the most successful periods of your retail calendar.
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